Affordable housing crisis getting worse - Bates

Release/Rhyddhau: 22/05/06

Contact/Cyswllt: Ceirion Rees:
029 2089 8342/ 07733280105/ ceirion.rees@wales.gov.uk 

The affordable housing crisis in Powys is getting worse and something needs to be done about it.  That was the opinion today from Montgomeryshire AM, Mick Bates. 

His views come as industry experts from the Halifax building society report that Powys has the least affordable housing out of the eight Welsh rural counties. 

Commenting, Mick said:  “The average house price in Powys is now £168,884 -nearly seven time the average household earnings of just £324,336. 

 ”The affordable housing crisis has been an issue for some time now.  It has affected those seeking to buy their own home and those seeking to rent.  We have had a lot of warm words from Government Ministers, but very little action. 

“We need to take action now!  That means working with Planning Authorities to identify land to build new homes.  That means extending the home-buy scheme.  That means establishing Community Land Trusts.  That means suspending the Right-to-buy in areas where the problem is at its worst.

“The local economy, the provision of local services, the future of shops and schools and the maintenance of a real community all depend upon a balanced mix of population.  If we do not solve the crisis much of that population, particularly the young and less affluent, will be driven out.  

“Political leaders need to speak out for the younger and less affluent members of our communities who are currently priced out of the market.  We need to explore every avenue to ensure the dream of an affordable home in our communities becomes a reality.”